Midot Stories

September 17, 2015

Here are the “feel good moments” and the WHY of JCC Maccabi. We honored participants with Midot (value) medals for exemplifying the six core values of JCC Maccabi: Jewish Peoplehood, Joy, Pride, Respect, Tikkun Olam, Big Heartedness.

Coach Alex radiates a love for Maccabi through the way she treats her players, coaches, and conducts herself. Her enthusiasm, respect and encouragement brought together a mixed team and even built the confidence of one of our players who had revealed she didn’t want to play. Coach Alex is exactly the type of person who makes Maccabi the incredible experience it is and she really understands the value of respecting all players and understands the meaning of JCC Maccabi in preserving Jewish peoplehood.

Samantha Horowitz – Springfield JCC athlete, Massachusetts

Sammi was presented with a midot medal for exemplifying the Midah (value) of Rina – Joy. She originally wanted to attend JCC Maccabi as a lacrosse player, but when girls lacrosse was cancelled because of low participation, Sammi quickly switched to swimming, because she knew that it was more about the experience than which sport she played. Although swimming is not Sammi’s strong suit, she did not scratch one event and came out of every race with a smile on her face. She was also the biggest cheerleader on the pool deck, by the side of the pool motivating her teammates and giving them pep talks. Sammi really embodies the JCC Maccabi spirit!

Eli Rabin, JCC of Greater Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Eli injured his wrist at camp a few weeks before JCC Maccabi was set to being. He still wanted to take part in JCC Maccabi and make the most of his experience, so Eli switched over from soccer into the Star Reporter specialty and embodied the spirit. Eli became a story teller of both sides of the program and got to follow his teammate’s progress as well as learn the ins and outs of photography, video production and design. Eli learned the entire ArtsFest group dance and got a medal for demonstrating joy throughout the week.